Electric Cars

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 emerges as a stylish and capable three-row SUV, blending a sophisticated interior with robust performance. It offers commendable fuel efficiency and agile handling, setting a high standard within its class. However, its third-row seating space is limited, and the ride quality can be somewhat stiff on uneven surfaces, indicating areas where its premium aspirations are slightly tempered. Despite these minor drawbacks, the CX-90 distinguishes itself by providing a near-luxury experience at a mainstream price point, featuring advanced safety and connectivity options.

2026 Mazda CX-90: Unveiling Mazda's Latest Three-Row SUV

In the vibrant automotive landscape of 2026, Mazda proudly introduces its updated CX-90, a mid-size, three-row SUV designed to captivate with its sleek lines and luxurious cabin. Under the meticulous craftsmanship of designer Austin Parsons, this vehicle brings a rare degree of sophistication to a segment often dominated by practicality. Available at a competitive price range of $40,830 to $59,100, the CX-90 positions itself as a compelling choice for families seeking both elegance and utility.

The powertrain features a choice of a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, delivering either 280 horsepower in standard trims or a robust 340 horsepower in the premium S models. A plug-in hybrid variant is also offered, boasting 323 horsepower. All models are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, ensuring confident performance across various driving conditions. While the powerful inline-six provides ample acceleration, some drivers may find its high-rpm engine sounds and low-speed transmission shifts less refined than expected. Despite these nuances, the CX-90 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a competitive 6.3 seconds for the 340-hp S Premium Plus variant.

Inside, the CX-90’s cabin exudes a premium feel, with high-quality materials such as Nappa leather upholstery on higher trims and distinctive fabric inserts on the dashboard and door panels. The spacious second row offers comfortable captain's chairs on Premium Plus trims, while the third row, though accommodating, is ideally suited for younger passengers. Cargo capacity is practical, with 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 75 cubic feet with all rear seats folded, capable of holding up to 16 carry-on bags.

For technology and safety, the CX-90 includes a standard 10.3-inch or optional 12.3-inch central infotainment display, controlled via a rotary knob for ease of use. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and features an available 12-speaker Bose premium audio system. Safety is paramount with Mazda’s i-Activsense suite, offering automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, contributing to its top-tier overall safety rating from NHTSA. The 2026 model year also sees minor enhancements, including Amazon Alexa integration and a new S Premium Sport trim with black exterior accents.

Reflections on the Evolving SUV Segment: Mazda's Distinctive Path

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 stands as a testament to Mazda's continuous evolution in the competitive mid-size SUV market. It highlights a strategic move by the automaker to infuse mainstream vehicles with luxury-level design and performance, challenging conventional perceptions. This approach not only broadens consumer choices but also encourages other manufacturers to elevate their offerings. The CX-90's blend of aesthetic appeal, strong engine options, and comprehensive safety features demonstrates that consumers do not have to compromise on sophistication for practicality. However, the feedback on the third-row comfort underscores a persistent challenge in this segment: balancing passenger capacity with genuine comfort for all occupants. As the automotive industry moves towards more refined and technologically integrated vehicles, the CX-90 serves as a compelling example of how a brand can carve out a unique identity by focusing on driving pleasure and premium touches.

Experience the Pinnacle of Automotive Excellence

Unveiling the 2027 Aston Martin Vanquish: A Vision of Power and Grace

The Aston Martin Vanquish projects an commanding presence, characterized by its meticulously sculpted profile and robust quad-exhaust outlets. It captures the essence of classic icons, exuding a striking beauty, effortless charm, and an underlying fierce character that defines its unique appeal in the high-performance grand touring category.

The Heart of the Beast: Unbridled V-12 Power

Beneath the sleek, elongated hood of the Vanquish lies a formidable twin-turbo V-12 engine, delivering an astounding 823 horsepower. This immense power is channeled to the rear wheels via an advanced eight-speed automatic transmission. Mastering its raw force requires precise control and unwavering confidence. Yet, the Vanquish is not solely built for aggression; it transforms into a serene cruiser for extended journeys, offering a lavish two-seat interior and a remarkably smooth ride. It truly is a captivating automobile in every sense.

Celebrating a Milestone: The 2027 Model Year and Special Edition

The year 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of the Vanquish, and Aston Martin is commemorating this quarter-century milestone with the introduction of a special edition, the Vanquish 25. This exclusive model features distinctive exterior enhancements, including door sills engraved with the number 25, a bespoke exhaust finish, and an elegant Q Skye Silver exterior paint. Inside, the cabin is distinguished by a unique upholstery pattern and a vibrant red engine start/stop button on the steering wheel, along with the Vantage 25 logo adorning the seats and front fenders. Aston Martin plans to produce only 25 coupe and 25 Volante versions of this special edition, totaling 50 units. While specific pricing details are yet to be revealed, a significant premium is anticipated over the standard Coupe's estimated $436,500 and the Volante's $489,700 starting prices.

Performance and Dynamics: Engine, Transmission, and Handling Prowess

The Vanquish is propelled by a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V-12 engine, generating an impressive 823 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission, complemented by an electronically controlled rear differential and 21-inch wheels fitted with specially developed Pirelli P Zero tires. Standard performance features include carbon-ceramic brakes and an advanced traction control system offering eight levels of intervention. An optional titanium exhaust system is also available for enhanced acoustics. Our test drive of the Vanquish Volante revealed exhilarating acceleration from its magnificent V-12, prone to wheelspin if not managed with care. The steering proved highly communicative, and the vehicle exhibited impeccable balance in handling.

Accelerated Performance: 0-60 MPH Times

We project that the Vanquish will achieve 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.0 seconds, placing it firmly in supercar territory. We will provide updated acceleration results once we have the opportunity to conduct comprehensive testing of the production model.

Efficiency and Range: Fuel Economy Insights

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates the Vanquish coupe will achieve 13 mpg in the city, 21 mpg on the highway, and 16 mpg combined. For the convertible Volante variant, the highway fuel economy is slightly less at 20 mpg. Once the vehicle is available for our 75-mph highway fuel economy test, we will update this report with real-world consumption figures.

Luxurious Interior: Comfort and Practicality

Designed as a strict two-seater, the Vanquish offers an opulent cabin adorned with premium materials, including semi-aniline leather and faux-suede, with an optional cashmere headliner. Standard features include 16-way power-adjustable seats. The dual digital displays on the dashboard are seamlessly integrated into the design, avoiding an obtrusive appearance. As a grand tourer, the Vanquish's trunk provides ample space for a weekend getaway for two, with the option to personalize the experience with a custom-fitted luggage set that complements the interior aesthetics.

Advanced Technology: Infotainment and Connectivity

The Vanquish features a sophisticated infotainment system accessible via a pair of 10.3-inch digital displays, which also serve as the gauge cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the navigation system incorporates the innovative What3Words app for highly precise destination input, mapping the entire world into three-square-meter sectors. The audio experience is elevated by a standard 15-speaker Bowers and Wilkins stereo system, featuring double amplifiers.

Enhanced Safety: Driver-Assistance Features

All Vanquish models come equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, and traffic sign recognition. Standard safety features encompass automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.

Ownership and Assurance: Warranty and Maintenance

Aston Martin's standard warranty offers three years of unlimited-mileage coverage for both the limited and powertrain warranties. However, complimentary maintenance is not included, though extended coverage plans are available for purchase, providing additional peace of mind for owners.

Rigorous Evaluation: C/D Test Results and Specifications

Annually, we subject hundreds of vehicles to our stringent instrumented testing regimen. The specifications provided, such as the 5.2-liter twin-turbo V-12 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, and estimated 0-60 mph time of 3.0 seconds, apply to the current model year. These figures reflect the consistent performance of the Vanquish across model years, ensuring their continued accuracy.